Intel takes centre stage for Gaga’s Grammy tribute to Bowie

Intel teamed up with Lady Gaga for the singer's David Bowie tribute at this year's Grammy Awards, the first of a multi-year deal intended to bring new innovation to live music performances.

The Intel Curie wearable hardware module took centre stage at the show, controlling a performance that included holographic displays, interactive video and robotics.

Among the tricks during the show was an “animated face” for Lady Gaga that allowed her to adopt a number of looks, using “digital makeup” through a projector to transform her in real time. Audiences saw the singer move through some of Bowie’s iconic looks using Intel’s “digital skin”.

A Curie module-based ring was used to control video effects in real time, appearing on an LED wall as the singer moved her wrists and arms.

Just to push it that bit further, a rose gold piano with robotic arms also featured during the performance.

Specialised hardware powered by Intel processors helped choreograph the lighting, audio and projection systems.

“I like to do things that integrate technology and art with powerful experiences,” said Lady Gaga. “I think that this collaboration with Intel has been very different than anything I have done before.”

The agreement between the Grammys and Intel was announced at CES in January.

“Intel is on a journey to create and share the amazing experiences that our technology enables,” said Steve Fund, senior vice president and chief marketing officer at Intel. “This performance has set a new precedent for live music experiences and is a major milestone for Intel and the Grammys.”